Reliant Joins with RISE Soccer Club to Host Free Soccer Clinic for Houston Youth in Honor of World Cup 26™

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Reliant, an NRG company, and RISE Soccer Club are coming together to host a free youth soccer clinic as part of the electricity company's commitment to “Grow the Game.” The clinic will take place on Saturday, February 22 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at RISE South Campus and will feature former U.S. Men's National Team star Clint Dempsey. The clinic is part of a broader initiative to grow soccer in local communities and increase accessibility and opportunities for young athletes.

“Our goal in supporting RISE and this clinic is to create opportunities for children to develop a lifelong love of soccer,” said Mark Parsons, senior vice president, Reliant. “As a proud supporter of the Houston FIFA World Cup 26™ Host Committee and longtime champion of RISE Soccer Club, we are thrilled to bring those relationships together to offer an impactful and memorable experience for local youth as we welcome world-class soccer to Houston.”

Texas-native Clint Dempsey, one of the most decorated players in the history of the U.S. Men’s National Team, will lead the clinic for invited youth players, offering a unique opportunity for them to learn new techniques and improve their skills. Dempsey is widely regarded as one of the most influential players in U.S. soccer history, having represented his country in three World Cups and playing for top clubs in both Major League Soccer and the English Premier League.

“Soccer is more than just a sport – it offers young athletes an opportunity to be active, make friends, grow emotionally, and become more well-rounded individuals. I’m honored to help inspire and mentor the next generation of soccer stars here in Houston,” said Clint Dempsey.

Reliant and NRG strongly believe in the power of sport and the impact it can have on young athletes, both on and off the field. Reliant has supported RISE Soccer Club for more than a decade and continues to invest in initiatives that help develop players. Through a recent $100,000 donation to RISE, Reliant is supporting efforts set forth by the Houston FIFA World Cup 26™ Host Committee to grow the game and leave a lasting legacy in Houston following the competition. Reliant’s donation will help fund youth soccer clinics, student scholarships and the development of new soccer fields. Further, Reliant customers can also support RISE and help reduce economic barriers of playing youth soccer. For all customers who use promo code “RISE” when signing up on any eligible electricity plan, Reliant will donate $100 to RISE’s Financial Aid Program.

"Soccer is incredibly important to the children and families of Houston,” said Gary Doughty, president, RISE Soccer Club. “Soccer clinics offer our youth the chance to be inspired, to learn from the best and to grow as athletes and individuals. With Reliant’s generous donation, we hope to expand our full-service soccer program to significantly more children, and we are excited to kick off our campaign to build more soccer fields, which is essential to growing the game."

RISE, one of the largest nonprofit soccer clubs in Houston, serves more than 2,500 youth soccer players, with programs available for all play levels from recreational to elite national platforms for aspiring college and professional athletes. RISE offers an unparalleled development environment led by one of the most highly licensed and experienced coaching staffs in the nation. The club, which recruits players from underserved communities, provides opportunities for children who may not otherwise be able to play in a soccer league with nearly $400,000 in annual scholarship support.

For more information on Reliant, visit reliant.com and to learn more about RISE Soccer Club, visit risesc.org.

About Reliant, an NRG company

Reliant makes power personal - that's why homes and businesses trust Reliant not only as a provider of electricity, but also as a pillar of support in the communities we serve. From a best-in-class app to breakthrough innovations, Reliant is recognized nationally for outstanding customer service and as the leader in the evolving energy space with offerings that span from EV solutions to solar insights to smart home experiences. As part of NRG Energy, Inc., a Fortune 500 energy and home services company, our purpose is to power a brighter future together, one that is safe, smart and sustainable. For more information about Reliant, visit reliant.com and connect with Reliant on Facebook at facebook.com/reliantenergy and X or Instagram @reliantenergy. PUCT Certificate #10007.

About RISE Soccer Club

RISE Soccer Club is a 501(c)(3) community-based, non-profit youth sports club that has served boys and girls in the Houston youth soccer community since 1978. RISE provides top-quality soccer programs for all levels of players, from fun recreational sessions for 3-year olds to the highest levels of training for college-bound and aspiring professional players participating in elite national platforms. Led by one of the most highly licensed and experienced coaching staffs in the nation, RISE is committed to developing soccer players through a curriculum tailored to each individual type of player. RISE works to connect our community, families and players by cultivating a club culture of respect, improvement, success, and empowerment through and for the advancement of soccer. For more information about RISE, visit risesc.org, connect with RISE on Facebook at facebook.com/RiseSoccerClub or Instagram @risesoccerclub.